Creation of the Back Cover Blurb

I was interviewed recently for a book and author promotions blog. We were talking about the strengths of the components of book covers and the importance of writing a good back-cover blurb (and a little bit of how-to). I’d like to share with other writers what we discussed.

What is your process for writing the back cover blurb? Is there a “formula” you follow?

I create the blurb based on how I would write a query letter for potential agents and publishers. The first line is my hook. For example, in my debut novel Lucifer’s Calling, the hook line is “A paralyzing prescription is recipe for creating one’s man art.” This is used to get the attention of the potential reader. I believe using the query creation method—or so I have just named it—is my best strength. I think providing a mini-synopsis for the blurb is of the utmost importance, especially if you’re a new author on the block and don’t have the exposure the established writers do. I will tell you a little secret…the last blurb I wrote took me all of thirty minutes, as I was on treadmill.

At what point do you write the back cover blurb?

I don’t consider even thinking about the blurb before the manuscript has been fully edited and ready for the submission phase. Once I’m satisfied with the final product of my work, I then write a three- to five-page synopsis of my entire book. From there, I will pick some key components of the synopsis and weave them into several sentences, which I believe will garner interest.

What advice would you share with authors who need to write one?

I say treat the blurb like you do your query letter. String together the most intriguing points from your story, and then, evaluate if they are interesting to people. Maybe show them to some of the people you know, who enjoy reading the material you write about. They are the ones who are going to purchase your book. You can base this on three key elements: the title, cover, and blurb. If you can entice their right brain juices, you have done the job you intended. Sometimes, I think the 400-page manuscript is easier to create than a 150- to 200-word blurb.